My name is Erica C. Blackwood and I strongly support this petition. I am a current Master's student at Virginia State University on the Clinical Psychology Tract. I have finished my degree program and I am currently taking courses in line with receiving my LPC. I have already submitted my application to the board before the changes took place. I was told if my application was received before the effective date of the changes, I would still be eligible. I have not received notice that my application would NOT be accepted, however, being a psychology major both undergraduate and graduate, it is definitely a constant concern that something will change. I support this petition mainly because, having already applied for the LPC, I recognize how closely the course requirements for LPC are aligned with the Clinical Psychology Tract of a graduate program. Also, being a QMHP already working in the community, I recognize my training is not much different than what is required of counselors. I respectfully request that this notion of those with psychology backgrounds not be eligible for an LPC, be reconsidered. Clinical Psychologists are extremely well trained in the many areas that affect clients. Our experience as psychology graduates puts us in the position to understand all realms of counseling, including but not limited to behaviors and development of all populations, physiology, psychopathology, therapeutic techniques, and even testing. If this petition is helpful, and the decision is overturned, this could be the start of endless positivity for many graduate clinical psychology programs. Opportunities will be much greater for those in our field, and the changes would certainly help to benefit the clients at large with the experience on hand. Thank you in advance for reconsidering and the attention given to this matter.